Audio Interfaces???

[guitarfreak12]

Ok, I've always used my line in for my input to the computer, but what is all this stuff about an audio interface, are they better, do they bypass the sound card? I gather that they hook up to the USB. Second question, how do I get my Cool Edit Pro or what ever to recognize it as the input? Because I was going to upgrade my sound card, but if these things are not just all hype then I'll look into it. Thanks

[Stealthtech]

An interface will in fact be a soundcard wether its PCI or USB with or without a breakout box.
You can certainly change out that sound bastard with a better card.
Take a look at the delta series cards from m-audio to get an idea of options.

www.m-audio.com